While waffles, toast, and scrambled eggs are all common breakfast foods you can find in America, that's not exactly the same for everywhere else in the world. Breakfast foods are more diverse than you think! We're going to take you on a whirlwind trip around the world as we visit several different countries to explore their breakfast offerings. Who knows, you might just find something new to add to your breakfast routine.
1. Natto (Japan)
If you're looking at the picture and wondering, "What the heck is that?", don't worry, this is a popular breakfast item in Japan. Natto is made from fermented soybeans and is often served over steamed rice and sometimes mixed with mustard, soy sauce, and sometimes chives. It's known for its incredibly strong flavour and smell, not to mention its sticky texture. While it's rich in protein and probiotics, it's certainly not for everyone.
2. Chilaquiles (Mexico)
Fun to say and fun to eat, Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican breakfast dish that is made of lightly fried corn tortillas that are topped with green or red salsa, pulled chicken, eggs, and cheese. Throw in a healthy dollop of sour cream for that extra hit of creamy goodness, and you've got yourself a heartwarming meal to start the day.
Photo by Mary West on Unsplash
3. Full English Breakfast (United Kingdom)
The UK is known for doing breakfast right thanks to what they call their "Full English Breakfast." Eggs, sausages, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, black pudding, and toast...whew, that was a mouthful. But what we're trying to get across is that this dish has EVERYTHING. Talk about a hearty breakfast!
Photo by Andy Wang on Unsplash
4. Açai Bowl (Brazil)
This Brazilian specialty is made from frozen açai palm fruit that's blended into a thick smoothie and served in a bowl. Topped with granola, banana, and a whole load of other goodies, it's finished off with a drizzle of honey that ties the whole thing together. Not only is it healthy for you, it's also so so refreshing.
Photo by Bakd&Raw by Karolin Baitinger on Unsplash
5. Shakshuka (North Africa)
Get excited about the morning with this popular breakfast dish hailing from North African and Middle Eastern countries. Shakshuka is a delicious concoction made with poached eggs, tomato sauce, chili peppers, onions, and spiced with cumin. Use some toasty bread to dip into it, soaking up all the goodness.
Photo by Sara Dubler on Unsplash
6. Congee (China)
Congee is such a versatile dish that's eaten across many Asian countries for breakfast. It's essentially a rice porridge that can be served plain, or with an assortment of toppings. Popular options include pickled vegetables, meats, and century egg, all of which brighten up the dish. It's such a comforting thing to eat on any cold morning.
Photo by Brett Wharton on Unsplash
7. Smørrebrød (Denmark)
Smørrebrød are Danish open-faced sandwiches, usually eaten for breakfast. They start with a buttered piece of rye bread, topped with various ingredients like cured salmon, herring, roast beef, egg, and plenty of garnishes. Not only is it visually appealing and delicious, it also showcases the simplicity and freshness of Nordic cuisine.
Photo by Alex Spöttel on Unsplash
8. Arepas (Venezuela)
Arepas are a staple breakfast food in Venezuela and Columbia. They're thick cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried. Once cooked, they're split open and stuffed to the brim with the most delicious fillings - everything from cheese to meat, avocados, and eggs! They can be made to fit any taste preferences, making this the ultimate satisfying morning meal.
Photo by Frederick Medina on Unsplash
9. Croissant (France)
Ah yes, the classic croissant. Loved around the world, this flaky, buttery pastry is perfect for all times of the day (not just breakfast!). Layered with butter and rolled several times over, this is one dish you can certainly appreciate for its mastery and craft.
Photo by Jocelyn Morales on Unsplash
10. Masala Dosa (India)
Essentially a fermented crepe made from rice batter and black lentils, Masala Dosa is all about the filling. Stuffed with a spicy mix of mashed potato, it's a heartwarming meal you're craving to start your day with. It's a staple dish in South India that's delicious but also nutritious. Served alongside a coconut chutney and sambar, it's time to get dipping!
11. Menemen (Turkey)
Menemen is a beloved breakfast dish that comes all the way from Turkey. It's simple but mighty, featuring softly scrambled eggs mixed with sautéed green peppers, tomatoes, and onions. Enjoy it with some fresh bread to create the perfect bite.
12. Karjalanpiirakka (Finland)
A cherished breakfast tradition in Finland, Karjalanpiirakka (since that's a mouthful, you can also call them Karelian pies) are unique pastries that are filled with savory ingredients like rice porridge or mashed potatoes. They're certainly not your typical tarts or pies! Served with a buttery egg mixture on top, it's a unique dish that you absolutely have to try.
Jarno Elonen, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
13. Ful Medames (Ethiopia)
From Ethiopia, we have Ful Medames, a staple breakfast dish consisting of slow-cooked fava beans that are seasoned with garlic, cumin, and lemon. It's maybe not something you've thought of having for breakfast before, but when you see the final product garnished with olive oil, chopped onions, and jalapenos and served alongside some fresh injera, you won't be able to resist.
Abdullah Geelah on Wikimedia Commons
14. Pretzels with Butter (Germany)
Imagine starting your day off with a freshly baked pretzel slathered in rich butter. Well in Germany, it's a beloved tradition! Particularly in the Bavarian region that is. Warm and soft, biting into that pretzel first thing in the morning is a simple way to start your day off on the right foot.
Photo by Wesual Click on Unsplash
15. Bissara (Morocco)
Thick and oh so flavourful, Bissara is a soup from Morocco that's made primarily from dried broad beans and seasoned with olive oil, cumin, and sometimes garlic. It's hearty, warm, and nutritious, offering you a filling and satisfying start to your day.
16. Stroopwafels (Netherlands)
For the sweet tooths out there, stroopwafels are a delight. These are breakfast treats from the Netherlands that consist of two thin layers of baked dough, filled with a gooey caramel syrup. They're best warmed up over a cup of tea or coffee, turning that caramel center into something irresistibly soft.
Photo by Grooveland Designs on Unsplash
17. Kimchi Fried Rice (Korea)
Kimchi Fried Rice, or Kimchi Bokkeumbap, is a popular breakfast choice in Korea, offering a spicy and savory flavor profile. Yes, in Asia it's normal to have rice in the morning! Made by stir-frying rice with fermented kimchi and various other ingredients, it's often topped off with a fried egg to create the most delicious bite.
Photo by Emanuel Ekström on Unsplash
18. Poha (India)
Light but still deeply satisfying, Poha is a breakfast dish from India that's made with flattened rice seasoned with turmeric and mustard seeds. Mixed with onions, peanuts, and green chilies, each bite will blow your mind.
19. Churros con Chocolate (Spain)
In Spain, Churros con Chocolate is a favorite breakfast, especially for those who prefer something sweet. The dish features churros, deep-fried dough pastries, served with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping. Talk about luxurious!
Jorge Castro Ruso on Wikimedia Commons
20. Poutine Breakfast Bowl (Canada)
A Canadian twist on the traditional poutine, the Poutine Breakfast Bowl incorporates the classic elements of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy with breakfast staples like eggs and bacon. It's everything you love in a hearty meal - all conveniently packed in one bowl! For those of you craving something rich and indulgent, this is exactly what you're looking for.
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